Volunteer Interest Form

Volunteer Interest

The California Society of Municipal Financers Officers (CSMFO) is a community of individuals who dedicate their lives to civil service and promote excellence in financial management through innovation, continuing education and professional development. Those who volunteer to support the CSMFO mission—on a committee, at the chapter level or as a member of the Board—will tell you the value they receive from their active involvement with CSMFO is immeasurable.

For those individuals who are ready to take on a greater role and begin contributing to the strength of the government finance profession, we invite you to volunteer for one of the many opportunities available, and CSMFO will make every effort to fulfill your request. We also understand you may have questions about these volunteer opportunities before you commit, and we encourage you to reach out to CSMFO’s Executive Director, Melissa Dixon, who would be happy to answer your question or direct you to the appropriate CSMFO leader.

Chapter Chairs generally serve at least a one-year term, and remain in office until they identify a successor. Other volunteer assistance can be on a per-meeting basis.

Chapters

Chapter Chairs, Vice Chairs and Other Assistance

CSMFO is divided into twenty (20) regional chapters. Some chapters meet annually, some quarterly, others every other month. Each chapter is managed by volunteer officers responsible for identifying the date, location, topic, and speaker for the meetings, as well as for promotion of the meeting. Approximate time commitment: 5-10 hours per meeting, including planning and preparation

Committee participation requires approximately 2-4 hours per month.

Officer positions are appointed by the incoming President at the beginning of each year, but member positions are open to appointment by the Committee Chair year-round. Meetings are generally conducted by conference calls.

Manages CSMFO’s educational offerings, including scheduling in-person courses, webinars and Weekend Training; collaborates with other organizations as it may meet the needs of CSMFO members; works with CSMFO Coaching Program consultant.

Communications

Communications Committee

Responsible for the publication of the CSMFO Magazine, and for establishing and maintaining guidelines for use of CSMFO branding.

Develops suggested systems and procedures, as needed; advises the CSMFO membership on technical publications and issues, as needed.

Program

Program Committee

Manages the educational content of the Annual Conference, including conducting calls for presentations, working with speaker bureaus, developing schedule of classes, coordinating speakers and moderators for each session.

Manages CSMFO’s website and internet presence, including social media; looks for ways to enhance the effectiveness and use of technology by CSMFO and its members.

Other avenues of participation are also available. Time commitments vary, as outlined below.

League

League Policy Committee Representatives

League Policy Committee Representatives:
League Policy Committee Representatives are appointed annually in October for a one-year term beginning the following January. Attendance at the meetings is mandatory, and reporting to the CSMFO Board after each meeting is requested. Please visit the League of California Cities’ website for information on specific committees.
Approximate time commitment: 3-4 in-person meetings annually. Some travel is required.

Awards Reviewers

CAFR/Budget Reviewers

CAFR/Budget Reviewers:
Each year, CSMFO receives approximately 100 award submissions. Each volunteer generally receives one budget to review annually between the months of September through January to determine if it meets the criteria for recognition.
Approximate time commitment: 2-3 hours annually.

Award Presenters

CAFR/Budget Award Presenters

CAFR/Budget Award Presenters:
Each year, CSMFO members receive award notifications. Each volunteer generally makes one award presentation annually between the months of March and September.
Approximate time commitment: 1-2 hours annually.

Contributor

Magazine Contributor

Magazine Contributor:
CSMFO distributes a newsletter, the CSMFO Magazine. We are always looking for articles (no sales pitches, please). Submissions are due by the 15th of the month for the following issue.
Approximate time commitment: 2-3 hours per submission.

Our Mission

CSMFO promotes excellence in financial management through innovation, continuing education and the professional development of our members. CSMFO members are deeply involved in the key issues facing cities, counties, and special districts in the State of California. We value honesty and integrity, and adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Join Us Today

Join CSMFO and experience all of the benefits of membership. Stay current on government finance news and trends, network with your peers around the state, and gain access to our online resources.